Parsun Outboards Motor Care

Winter care for your Outboard

To help keep your engine in tip-top condition for years to come, it is important that you “winterize” your outboard for off-season storage. By winterizing your outboard, you will help ensure that your outboard will be ready to go at the start of next year's boating season.

Winterizing Your Outboard

Step One

Thoroughly flush your engine with clean, fresh water. We recommend to use Saltaway product as recommended.

All Parsun outboards are water cooled; running your outboard without an adequate source of cooling water will result in severe damage to your outboard!

Smaller Horsepower Outboard (2hp through 6hp):For our 4-stroke models 2hp-6hp and our 5hp 2-stroke models you can use the optional flushing plug. For smaller outboards, you can also flush your outboard by using a large bucket of water. Be sure the bucket is large enough to completely cover the water intake ports on the lower unit of the outboard. Also be sure that the bucket is wide enough so that no part of the motor will touch the sides/bottom of the bucket. Securely mount your outboard on a sawhorse or some other type of apparatus that will allow safe operation of your outboard.

8 hp and up:With the 8-90 hp you can either use the optional flushing plug which can be attached to a hose for flushing the engine with fresh water or purchase a set of “ear muffs” (available at your local marine dealer). This equipment attaches to your garden hose and clamps on to your outboard's lower unit, covering the water intake ports. Turn the garden hose 1/2 to full before starting your engine to get a good water flow without too much pressure (to minimize air bubbles).

Run your outboard at normal idle speed for 5-10 minutes to allow the engine to warm up. It is best to use a mixture of stabilized fuel with fogging oil. (follow brand directions and be sure 2-stroke pre-mix models have the appropriate oil also in the fuel). Or, you may remove the air box and spray fogging oil through the carburettor/s throat(s) while running the engine just before you shut it down. This will cause excessive smoke and ensure that all internal parts are lubricated. If you plan to leave the stabilized fuel in the tank (for short seasonal periods-usually 3 months or less), then be sure it is full to keep evaporation and condensation to a minimum. Or you may drain the fuel system completely for longer periods (see step Two). Fuel quality can be different in many areas. Check with your local Dealer to have your motor winterized, or see which procedure is best in your area.

After flushing the outboard, allow the water to completely drain from the engine (see Step 2 before you shut off your engine if you plan to "fog" your engine manually). Your outboard should be in a vertical position for the water to completely drain. While you're waiting for your engine to drain, wipe off any dirt, grease, etc. from the exterior of the engine.

Step Two

If fogging the motor manually, disconnect the fuel line at the motor and continue running the motor until it runs out of gas. It is extremely important to ensure that the fuel system is completely drained. If not completely drained, deposits (gum, varnish, etc.) may form inside the carburettor.

To drain the fuel from the carburettor you can use one of these techniques: As the fuel begins to run out and the motor starts to "die", choke the engine a little until the RPMs pick back up. Continue choking the engine as the engine starts to die out until the fuel supply is finally exhausted.

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Remove the drain screw from the carburetor bowl and allow all fuel to drain out. Replace the screw when finished. Although this technique requires a bit more effort than the first, it is recommended to use this procedure to fully ensure that all fuel has been removed from the carburetor.

If you have fuel left in your tank, add Fuel Stabilizer to it and fill the tank to keep condensation and evaporation to a minimum so that it can be used the following season.

For carbureted 2-stroke motors: If your outboard is not an oil-injected model (i.e. you mix your gas/oil manually), we highly recommend you do not store the gasoline for extended periods of time. Over time, the gas and oil will separate which will lead to a lack of lubrication to your engine.

Step Three

Storage oil comes in an aerosol spray can and is used to prevent rust on the engine's cylinder, crankshaft, bearings, pistons, etc. and can be purchased at most local marine dealers. Follow the oil manufacturer's recommendation on the amount of storage oil to use (generally about 2 ounces for each cylinder).

First, remove the spark plug(s) and the stop switch lanyard cord from your outboard. It is also a good idea to disconnect the spark plug wires from the spark plugs to prevent accidental starting.

Manual Start Outboards:Slowly turn the engine over a few times using the pull cord while spraying the storage oil into the spark plug holes.

Electric Start Outboards:Be sure you have water hooked up to your water intakes before turning over your outboard to prevent damage to your water pump. While spraying the storage oil into the spark plug holes, turn the engine over in 5 second bursts using your electric starter. Do not over “crank” your engine or you could damage the electric starter.

Step Six

Step Seven

To help keep your factory finish looking new, apply a light coat of oil (or spray lube) to the exterior. Or you can also wax the exterior of your outboard using a high grade automobile wax.

Step Eight

Store the engine vertically in a dry area. If you store your boat in the water there are several schools of thoughts regarding whether you should store your engine in or out of the water. There are advantages and disadvantages of both ways and unfortunately there is no one “correct” or “best” way. Numerous factors such as temperature, salt/fresh water, algae growth, corrosion, etc. must be taken into account when deciding whether to leave your outboard in the water or tilt it up out of the water.

To find out which is “best” way we recommend you ask your local marina, fellow boaters in your area, etc. how they store their boat/outboard during the off-season.

Factors to keep in mind:

Storing in water allows algae and corrosion to affect your outboard.

Storing out of the water could cause damage if the outside temperature reaches freezing and there is water in your lower unit.

If you store your motor tilted up, we recommend you remove your prop to decrease the temptation of someone stealing your prop.

Storing down in the salt water drastically increases the potential for corrosion.

Battery Storage

Step One

Disconnect the battery cables and clean the battery terminals using a wire brush.

Step Two

Recharge the battery to full strength. You should also recharge the battery once a month during the off-season to prevent electrical discharge and degradation of the electrolytes.

Step Three

Clean the exterior of the battery.Step FourApply grease (Vaseline works nicely) to the battery terminals.Step FiveStore your battery in a dry place.

Parsun Outboards Motor Size Guide

Tips for selecting the right size hp for portable outboard motor for your boat.

Motor HP

2hp – 10hp

5hp – 15hp

9hp – 20hp

20hp – 40hp

40hp – 75hp

90hp – 140hp

Boat length (feet)

8’ – 12’

8’ – 14’

11’ – 16’

13’ – 18’

14’ – 20’

16’ – 25’

Boat length (metres)

up to 3.5m

up to 4.2m

up to 4.5m

up to 5.0m

up to 5.5m

up to 6m +

Tips for selecting the right size hp for Portable outboard motors

2hp – 3.6hp (Less than 18kg)

These small outboards are common for portable boats such as canoes, folding boats, inflatable boats, Dinghys, small sailboats, small pontoon boats and other small light watercraft. Outboards in this range will typically be limited to forward-only gears or forward-neutral gears which spin 360 degrees. These are very portable with features such as built-in integral fuel tanks, and convenient carrying handles. They are lightweight and compact in design and can be easily transported.

What you can expect:

Will propel most hulls at approx 8-16 kmh

In auxiliary or kicker motor applications, hulls less than 317kg and under 4.5m can reach troll speeds

Engines are very lightweight, compact and very easily transported

5 – 6hp (18-25kg)

This hp range is ideal for a variety of application including small inflatable boats up to 3.5m in length, portable folding boats, larger canoes, 2.5-3.5m dinghies and inflatables. Hulls such as these typically weigh between 22 – 113kg and require a short shaft (15” shaft length). All outboards in this hp range should also be available in 20” long shaft configurations which is ideal for sail boat power and auxiliary kicker motor applications for hulls less than 6m length. Engines in this hp range are typically 1-cylinder, although some 2-cylinders do exist. A heavy person or more than one person in a hull in this hp class can have a dramatic effect on hull performance making plaining difficult. Engines in this hp range feature heavier duty construction and enhanced manoeuvrability features such as forward-neutral-reverse gears. These engines may have integral fuel tanks or separate fuel tanks.

What you can expect:

Engines in this range will propel most hulls at approx. 16-28kmh with one person and light load

8 – 9.8 hp (25-45kg)

Small but mighty outboards that pack a powerful punch. This hp range is quite popular for use with inflatable boats 3m – 4.5m, aluminium boats 3m – 4.5m in length, larger sturdy canoes, larger portable folding boats, and lighter fiberglass boats up to 4.5m. These hulls typically range in weight from 34kg – 136kg and require a 15” short shaft length outboard. Engines in this hp range are also available in 20” long shaft and 25” extra-long shaft length making them ideal choices for sail boats and emergency kicker motors. Engines in this hp range are ideal for sail boats ranging from 5m – 8m. Newer four-stroke outboards in this range are equipped with advanced features such as audible and visual warning indicators for low oil pressure and overheating. Electric start and 12v charging capabilities are usually offered with optional models in this hp range. Most engines in this range feature 2-cylinders for greatly improved planning time and performance, as well as reduced vibration that is typical of 1-cylinder outboards. Outboards in this hp range have separate fuel tanks ranging from 10 litres (common with 4-strokes) to 24 litres (common with 2-strokes).

What you can expect:

Engines in this range will propel most hulls at approx. 15-28kmh with one to two persons and/or a light to moderate load

Some engines in this range include advanced features typically found only on larger outboards (electric start, audible/visible warning, etc...)

Many makes in this range offer electric start w/ 12V battery charging

Some makes offer lightweight, compact, easily transportable models

15 - 25 hp (36kg-52kg)

Powerful workhorses that are still considered a part of the small outboard hp class. Outboard engines in this hp range are available primarily in 4-stroke configurations but may limited availability in 2-stroke configurations. Due to 2006 EPA regulations, outboard manufacturers are now required to build cleaner more efficient engines that meet strict emission standards. This hp range is quite popular for use with inflatable boats 10-14ft, aluminium fishing boats 12-16ft, jon boats 12-16ft in length, fiberglass boats 12-16ft in length. These hulls typically require a 15” short shaft length but may require a 20” shaft length as you approach 16ft in length. These hulls typically range in weight from 60-260+kgs. Engines in this hp range are available in both 15” short shaft and 20” long shaft. These hp outboards are ideal for river trolling, emergency kicker applications, and sail boats ranging from 22-30+ feet in length. Newer four-stroke outboards in this range are equipped with advanced features such as audible and visual warning indicators for low oil pressure and overheating. Electric start and 12v charging capabilities are usually offered on optional models in this hp range. Engines in this range feature 2-cylinders reducing vibration and providing smoother operation. 15-20hp outboards utilize 10 litres (common with 4-strokes) or 24 litres (common with 2-strokes) separate fuel tanks.

What you can expect:

Engines in this range will propel most hulls at approx. 20-40 kmh with one or more people and moderate to heavy load

Also an excellent source of power for river trolling, larger sailboats, and emergency/auxiliary/kicker applications

Most engines in this range include advanced outboard features • Many makes in this range offer electric start w/ 12V battery charging

Call us today with your questions: 06 759 1990

Testimonials / Case Studies

My Parsun goes fantastic on my 10' Parker. The service I have received has been fantastic.